The possibility of publishing a journal in electronic format with open access with the support of information technologies and communication technologies (ICTs) has brought about substantial changes in the process of scientific communication. One aspect still not much discussed in this new configuration is related to management model of journals, to which there are issues of both cost of production and quality assurance of content. Both dimensions put in focus the sustainability of open access electronic journal, which is the subject of this article. The starting point incorporates a discussion about the birth and death of Brazilian scientific journals, and how this can be reconfigured in the light of changes underway in the scientific communication model. A classical model of management is the description of a broad portfolio of alternatives available today which prompts a reflection on their sustainability. The article concludes pointing out the importance of placing this issue on the agenda of public policies on science and technology and information in Brazil, and more specifically on the agenda of priorities for research on public health.